I'm considering writing an entry for a contest to get on the cover of Runners World. One of the entry requirements is a 200 word essay on a running break through moment. Even if I decide ultimately not to enter the contest, I thought it might be fun to try to write the essay. Here's what I came up with.
They say a journey of 10,000 miles begins with a single step. For me it began with a single decision. In 2007 my doctor looked at my blood test results and gave me a simple choice; exercise or medication for the rest of my life. At the age of 46 I was unwilling to turn my life over to chemistry. The doctor recommended a very simple exercise philosophy; breathing hard and sweating for 30 minutes a day, ...every day -whatever it takes. And so my journey began on January 1, 2008. In 6 months my cholesterol and blood sugar were back to normal and I was hooked on running. There is a dog-eared page in my journal that I refer back to when I feel I'm not running well. It says "Ran an entire mile without stopping". Over time and with guidance and inspiration from my friends in the Early Air Running Club, my milage increased and I started racing. At this point in my journey covers a little over 1700 miles each year. On Memorial Day weekend 2016 I finished my first Marathon. Running probably saved my life but it took time and it took making a decision.
Wow, 200 words go by quickly. Took many edits to get it down. It's not perfect. I could edit it more but I think I'll move on. It was worth the effort though. It was sort of my version of a crossword puzzle on a Sunday afternoon.
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